Gimmel ring (Twin ring)

Unknown

second half 16th century · Gold, enamel, rubies, emerald · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

This two-part ring of interlaced gold hoops is inscribed with a German phrase that translates to “Those whom God hath joined together let no man put asunder.” This type of ring was commonly used as a wedding band during the Renaissance. A gimmal ring with a similar message featured in the marriage ceremony of Protestant reformer Martin Luther (1483–1546) and Katharina von Bora (1499–1552), a former Cistercian nun.

Artist

Unknown

Date

second half 16th century

Medium

Gold, enamel, rubies, emerald

Culture

Southern German

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

The Lesley and Emma Sheafer Collection, Bequest of Emma A. Sheafer, 1973